New Kathiresan Kovil (Bambalapitiya).

The Kathiresan kovil or Puthiya (new) Kathiresan kovil is a beautiful one easily recognizable from Galle Road in Bambalapitiya -the temple is dedicated to the war God Skanda or Murugan.

Kovils are typically vertical structures heavily adorned with images from Hindu mythology. On the corners of the roof of the Kathiresan kovil you’ll find Bhairava the Frightful, a fierce manifestation of Shiva.

The men selling garlands at the front gate told us that the temple is likely more than a hundred years old.

The kovil has both old and new sections, some parts in bright colours and some in gold paint – it’s all very grand and superfluous, but the craftsmanship of the artist behind the sculpted figures is amazing. At the back of the premises to the left are the Kathiresan Hall and further in Manikka Pillaiyar Kalai Rangam, halls where weddings are often carried out.

If you go round the back of the temple, you’ll also find some cages of love birds and cockatoos and even a pretty peahen. We were told they’re kept as pets by the temple keepers. Photography is not usually allowed at the temple but luckily we got there when the temple was closed to the public.

The inside of the temple is spacious and has separate shrines for deities, similarly decorated. Visitors bring garlands sold at the gates and sometimes even expensive materials to adorn the deities. In July/August, or the Tamil month of Aadi, the Kathiresan temples of Bambalapitiya and Pettah take part in the Vel Festival, where a chariot is carried from the New Kathiresan in Pettah to the one in Bamba, surrounded by a procession of performers and musicians. Some of the very passionate devotees pierce their faces with spears for the occasion.

Temple hours are usually from 5.30AM to 10.30AM, and 5.30PM to 8PM, every day, although we were told the temple is particularly teeming with crowds on Fridays and Saturdays. The Kathiresan kovil is a very cool place to visit if Hindu architecture is something that fascinates you.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Japanese Restaurants in Sri Lanka

1.Salmon and Maki - Thalawathugoda Japanese Fusion Cuisine 11.00 AM - 10.30 PM (everyday) Visit:

Highlights Kamu Trending

Hidden Spot Worth Finding: The Avenue, Colombo

Located in Colombo, The Avenue is one of those spots that feels comfortable the moment

Highlights Kamu Trending

7 Fine Dining Restaurants You Must Try in Colombo

Sri Lanka’s culinary scene is rapidly evolving, blending its rich heritage with global gastronomic trends.

Highlights Kamu Trending

Tea Trails & Tastes: : Best Eats in Nuwara Eliya and Ella.

By Fathima Rukaiya, Let’s take a flavorful journey through the culinary landscapes of Ella and

Highlights Kamu Trending

Press Conference: Celebrating 50 Years of The London Grill & Welcoming Visiting Chef Phillip Davenport

Colombo, Sri Lanka – 14 May 2025 – Cinnamon Grand Colombo is pleased to invite

Highlights Kamu Trending

Pizza Hut’s Newest Craving Fix: Melts Single

Pizza cravings but not in the mood for a whole one? Let me introduce the

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

Japanese Restaurants in Sri Lanka

1.Salmon and Maki - Thalawathugoda Japanese Fusion Cuisine 11.00 AM - 10.30 PM (everyday) Visit:

Highlights Kamu Trending

Hidden Spot Worth Finding: The Avenue, Colombo

Located in Colombo, The Avenue is one of those spots that feels comfortable the moment

Highlights Kamu Trending

7 Fine Dining Restaurants You Must Try in Colombo

Sri Lanka’s culinary scene is rapidly evolving, blending its rich heritage with global gastronomic trends.

Highlights Kamu Trending

Father’s Day Festivities Await at Cinnamon Grand Colombo

This Father’s Day, Cinnamon Grand Colombo invites guests to honour Dad with an array of

Trending

Celebrate Sustainability & Community at the POYA Market Mount Lavinia Hotel

The POYA Market returns to Mount Lavinia Hotel on Monday, 10th June 2025, from 10

Trending

Celebrate Dad in Style This Father’s Day at Sheraton Kosgoda

Exclusive Daycation Offers with Special Perks for Super Dads Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort invites

Trending

Yamu Guide.

The 2025 High Tea Round-Up

Looking for the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing high tea? Whether you're into sweet

Highlights Yamu Guide

Father’s Day Gift Guide 2025

By Linara Wimalaweera Father's Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and influence of

Yamu Guide

Top Must-Try Restaurants in Ahangama for 2025

Ahangama, a charming surf town on Sri Lanka's southern coast, is becoming a popular spot

Highlights Yamu Guide

8 Gift Ideas to Celebrate Your Mom This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a special time set aside to honor the amazing women who shape

Yamu Guide

Colombo’s best kept secrets – Date night spots 2025

Colombo might be known for its trendy cafes and fancy rooftop spots, but who says

Kamu Yamu Guide

A Luxurious Seafood Experience at Fat Crab Colombo

Fat Crab Colombo offers a wonderful dining experience that combines luxury, live music, and an

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide